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Bloat is a form of indigestion marked by excessive accumulation of gas in the rumen. Bloat can occur when the animal grazes on lush young pasture, particularly if the pasture is wet. Some plants, e.g. clover, lucerne and alfalfa are especially dangerous in causing bloat but any fast growing plants can cause it.

Common symptoms:

The left flank balloons out, difficulty in breathing, animal kicks its belly.

Don’t allow animals to wet pastures in the morning. Offer dry, cut grass first before turning out to graze.